A method of controlling an electrical machine. The electrical machine includes a stator having a core and a plurality of windings, and a rotor disposed adjacent to the stator to interact with the stator. The method includes configuring an amplitude value and frequency values of a three-phase alternating current (AC) voltage startup signal having an amplitude and a frequency, providing the three-phase alternating current (AC) voltage startup signal to the plurality of windings, and altering the frequency of the three-phase AC voltage startup signal according to a preprogrammed frequency ramp function defined by the frequency values. The method further includes discontinuing the three-phase AC voltage startup signal after the frequency ramp function has completed, and switching to a back electromotive force (BEMF) control mode after discontinuing the three-phase AC voltage startup signal.